MRI of ischemic stroke in canines: Applications for monitoring intraarterial thrombolysis

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a canine embolic stroke model that is appropriate for endovascular procedure evaluations and develop local cerebral blood flow (CBF) maps to monitor the progression of stroke and thrombolysis. In the future, MR may displace X-ray imaging in some endovascular procedures, such as intraarterial (IA) thrombolysis for stroke therapy, due to increased monitoring capabilities. For MR to attain its full potential in endovascular therapy, the development of appropriate disease models and monitoring techniques is essential. Materials and Methods: The canine stroke model uses an injection of autologous clot to produce ischemic and infarcted tissue and produces a range of stroke severities within the anterior cerebral circulation. Local CBF maps were formed by using the catheter that would be in place to deliver the thrombolytic agent for treatment to deliver the gadolinium-based contrast agent for perfusion imaging. Results: After the injection of clot, changes on imaging were consistent with the progression of ischemic stroke. Local CBF maps showed perfusion changes with stroke progression and treatment. Conclusion: We successfully demonstrate the progression of ischemic stroke in the canine to mimic the progression of human stroke. CBF maps to show local perfusion characteristics show great potential in the evaluation of stroke therapy. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.